Starting a business based on social entrepreneurship or running a nonprofit organization can be a daunting task, particularly when it comes to securing financial support. However, in Alberta, there are various community grants and foundations that specifically support social enterprises and nonprofits. These organizations understand the importance of these ventures in creating positive social impact and are dedicated to providing financial assistance to help them thrive.
In this article, we will explore some of the community grants and foundations in Alberta that can be found in our funding database to provide support to entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations pursuing social and community-oriented goals.
Alberta Social Innovation Connect (ABSI Connect)
ABSI Connect is a community-driven initiative that aims to connect social innovators and entrepreneurs with resources and support. This organization offers various funding opportunities, including grants, loans, and social impact bonds. Their funding programs are designed to support innovative social entrepreneurs who are working towards addressing pressing social challenges in Alberta. ABSI Connect provides mentorship, networking opportunities, and financial resources to help social enterprises build sustainable and impactful businesses.
Alberta Ecotrust Foundation
The Alberta Ecotrust Foundation focuses on environmental sustainability and supports organizations and social ventures that work towards the protection and conservation of the environment. They provide grants and community loans to registered nonprofits and social enterprises that focus on environmental initiatives such as conservation, renewable energy, climate resilience, and sustainable land use. The foundation offers financial support and also provides guidance and capacity-building resources to help organizations achieve their environmental goals.
Edmonton Community Foundation (ECF)
The Edmonton Community Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of residents in the greater Edmonton area. They support charitable organizations and social enterprises that address a wide range of community needs, from education and arts to social services and healthcare. ECF offers various grant programs that support social enterprises and nonprofits, including the Smart & Caring Communities Grant and the Building Equity & Equality Fund. These grants aim to enhance the social well-being and inclusivity of the local community.
Calgary Foundation
The Calgary Foundation is another prominent organization that supports social enterprises and nonprofits in Alberta. They provide financial support through their Community Grants program, which funds projects that align with their five focus areas: empowering families and communities, stimulating change, building capacity, supporting innovation, and promoting the arts. Social entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations can apply for these grants, which can help them develop programs, expand their impact, or invest in infrastructure.
ATB Financial
ATB Financial, a major financial institution in Alberta, also plays a role in supporting social enterprises and nonprofit organizations. They offer financial solutions specifically designed for the nonprofit sector, including loans, lines of credit, and banking services. ATB Financial understands the unique financial needs of social enterprises and nonprofits, and their dedicated team works closely with organizations to provide tailored support. Additionally, ATB Financial has partnered with various organizations and initiatives to provide additional funding opportunities to social ventures.
In Alberta, there are several community grants and foundations that actively support social enterprises and nonprofit organizations. Ranging from ABSI Connect and Alberta Eco trust Foundation to Edmonton Community Foundation, Calgary Foundation, and ATB Financial, these organizations provide grants, loans, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help entrepreneurs and nonprofits achieve their social missions. If you are a social entrepreneur or running a nonprofit organization in Alberta, consider exploring these funding options and resources to secure the financial support necessary to make a positive impact on your community.
